Weather & supports
Prepare for a heatwave and help plants recover
Identify seedlings, recent transplants and small pots as priority checks.
When to do it
Before forecast extreme heat, with checks during and after the event.
What you need
- Forecast
- Water
- Temporary shade and secure supports
How to do it
- Identify seedlings, recent transplants and small pots as priority checks. Postpone transplanting, pruning and fertilising until conditions ease.
- Check root moisture and water where needed early enough to soak in. Restore suitable mulch without burying stems.
- Set up ventilated afternoon shade or move manageable pots to shelter. Keep air moving and secure covers against wind.
- During heat, inspect without assuming every wilted leaf needs water. If roots are wet, additional water may worsen the problem.
- Afterwards, maintain suitable moisture and wait for recovery before removing all scorched foliage. Assess surviving buds and new growth; remove only clearly dead or hazardous material when appropriate.
What success looks like
- Protected plants retain viable growing points and resume growth.
Watch out for
- Flooding wet roots in response to midday wilt.
- Hard pruning stressed plants immediately.
Related help
Give vulnerable plants temporary shade
Reduce harsh afternoon sun while keeping air moving.
Decide whether your plant needs water
Look below the surface before reaching for the hose.
Sources and review
Checked 24 September 2026. Source-checked editorial guidance; not field-tested or independently reviewed by a horticulturist.